Why do the balls of my feet hurt?

Pain in the ball of your foot is often caused by exercise, such as running, wearing shoes that are too tight or a condition such as arthritis. Some people also have a foot shape that puts extra pressure on the ball of the foot. Hard or cracked skin or a verruca can also cause this type of pain.

What causes pain in the balls of the feet?

Metatarsalgia (met-uh-tahr-SAL-juh) is a condition in which the ball of your foot becomes painful and inflamed. You might develop it if you participate in activities that involve running and jumping. There are other causes as well, including foot deformities and shoes that are too tight or too loose.

When should I see a doctor for ball of foot pain?

However, a person who experiences any of the following should make an appointment with their doctor: severe or persistent pain. visible bruising or swelling that does not improve 2–5 days after a foot injury. tingling, numbness, or burning sensations, especially in the bottom of the foot.

How do you get rid of metatarsalgia?

How do I know if I have metatarsalgia?

The main symptom of metatarsalgia is pain at the end of one or more of the metatarsal bones. Those are the bones in the ball of your foot, closest to your toes. The pain can be sharp, a dull ache, or a burning feeling. You may feel like you're stepping on a pebble.

Metatarsalgia: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

How do I stop the balls of my feet hurting?

Does Epsom salt help metatarsalgia?

Low level, cold laser or ultrasound therapy to the metatarsal head area can decrease inflammation or irritation and significantly calm down the area. Soaking your feet in hot, Epsom salt bath. This simple home remedy can take some of the soreness out of the foot.

Do I need to see a doctor for metatarsalgia?

If your pain in the metatarsal area persists for a few days after resting your feet or changing your footwear, it's best to see a doctor. Your doctor will examine your foot and ask you to walk so they can observe your gait. They will also ask you questions about your activities and when the pain started.

What exercise is good for metatarsalgia?

Ankle Extension

Sit in a chair, and cross the injured foot over your knee. Hold the ankle with your hand on the same side, and your toes in the opposite hand. Pull your toes towards you until it's uncomfortable (but not painful). Hold for 5-10 seconds.

Is massage good for metatarsalgia?

Massage Can Reduce Metatarsalgia

Massage techniques can help with metatarsalgia ( ball of foot pain) and aid in Morton's Neuroma. These techniques are becoming very popular among sports therapists, and massage therapists, reflexologists, and physical therapists.

Can foot pain be related to heart problems?

One reason your feet can develop problems is because of the distance that they are away from your heart. When the heart's pumping is strained by something like peripheral arterial disease, it reduces the flow of blood to your feet, making them hurt or making them swollen.

How long does it take for metatarsalgia to go away?

Ball of the foot pain or Metatarsalgia generally takes 6-8 weeks to improve and early activity on the healing bone and joint can result in a setback in recovery.

Can you get gout in the ball of your foot?

Gout is a common form of arthritis that can affect toe, foot, ankle, knee, hand and elbow joints.

Can plantar fasciitis cause ball of foot pain?

Plantar fasciosis is pain originating from the dense band of tissue called the plantar fascia that extends from the bottom of the heel bone to the base of the toes (ball of the foot). The connective tissue between the heel and ball of the foot may become damaged and painful.

Why do my feet hurt in bed at night?

Aching feet at night or nighttime foot pain can be due to a muscular issue, a nerve problem, a bone-related pathology or injury, dermatological or skin-related conditions, an inflammatory process or a vascular concern.

Why do the balls of my feet hurt when I wake up?

Plantar fasciitis is by far the most common cause of foot pain in the morning. If you have this condition, you may feel a stabbing pain in your heels. Although the pain will feel like it's in your heels, it's actually caused by an inflammation of the plantar fascia.

Can compression socks help metatarsalgia?

The Brison Metatarsal Compression Arch Support Sleeves are developed by Brison Health podiatrists and are specially made to alleviate pain from having flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and other pains related to metatarsal and foot arch conditions.

Do metatarsal pads work?

Studies evaluating met pads for metatarsalgia have been primarily positive. Kang et al found that applying met pads is an effective method for reducing pressure unloading under the met heads and relieving symptoms of metatarsalgia.

How do you get metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is usually the result of increased pressure on the ball of the foot. Some common causes of metatarsalgia include: badly fitting footwear – high-heeled or restrictive shoes can force the ball of the foot into a small amount of space, which puts more pressure on that area.

What are the best walking shoes for metatarsalgia?

What is the best painkiller for foot pain?

Oral analgesic medications such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or aspirin are often the first line choice for quick relief of foot pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are also often recommended and can help to reduce inflammation at the same time.

What can a podiatrist do for metatarsalgia?

Will soaking feet help metatarsalgia?

Soak your foot in warm water for a few minutes to soften the skin. Dry the foot. Gently rub the callus with a pumice stone or nail file to remove the hard skin. Stop if bleeding or pain occurs.